HOTELS
The best pubs in Oxfordshire
Oxfordshire's pub scene is as diverse as its landscapes, offering a wide array of establishments that cater to every taste and preference. From historic taverns to riverside retreats, each pub in this picturesque county tells a story of tradition, community, and the timeless allure of English pub culture. Whether you're a local resident or a curious traveler, exploring the best pubs in Oxfordshire is an invitation to savor the rich history, warm hospitality, and delightful libations that make this region a true gem in the heart of England.
BY ARCHIE CAWTHRA
17 January 2024
1/19
Double Red Duke,
An immaculately restored old inn with generous bedrooms, great food, ale and wine. Locals love it as much as those who make it a destination
This was probably always a hostelry of some sort: the big building sits on the road in the heart of the sleepy village, close to Bampton of Downton Abbey fame. Food is a big priority and chef, Richard Sandiford, cooks on an open fire in the centre of the dining room - a performance art. English lamb, beef, pork, oysters and hand cut chips - the menu is seasonal and local, five pumps grace the bar: all local including Clavell & Hind's, Rook Wood. There are plenty of different places to settle with your drink and a newspaper: the bar area, a cosy corner with potted plants and views of the kitchen and lots of snugs with books and games. Spill out into the garden on warm days, walk onto the Thames Path from the village, hire bikes, unwind in lovely English countryside.
Bourton Rd, Clanfield, Bampton OX18 2RB
www.countrycreatures.com/double-red-duke
2/19
Trout at Tadpole Bridge, Buckland
Nestled deep in the West Oxfordshire countryside close to the small town of Faringdon, The Trout at Tadpole Bridge celebrates the very best of British pub country life. Surrounded by fields and with the River Thames flowing just outside their door, the cosy bar and boutique bedrooms are the perfect place for you to relax in classic Cotswold style.
In the kitchen, it’s all about traditional pub food created with the finest seasonal and local produce, with a focus on fresh fish, seafood and steaks, and the best Sunday roasts in the area. Behind the bar, you’ll find a cracking range of cask ale and craft beer, plus local cider and a great wine selection.
Buckland Rd, Buckland Marsh, Faringdon SN7 8RF
www.butcombe.com/the-trout-at-tadpole-bridge-oxfordshire/
3/19
Three Horseshoes, Asthall
The Three Horseshoes is renowned for its warm welcome and generous community spirit. Serving local beers and ales, an eclectic wine list and comforting pub food made from seasonal ingredients, the pub has six rooms and a large garden with views across the rolling Cotswold hills.
Since 1726, the pub’s innkeepers – farriers by trade, replaced the horseshoes of travellers passing through the village. In 1977 it was renamed The Maytime. Today the pub has returned to its roots, becoming The Three Horseshoes in honour of its history and heritage.
Asthall Manor, Asthall, Burford OX18 4HW
www.threehorseshoesasthall.com
4/19
The Swan Inn, Swinbrook
The Swan in Swinbrook, nestled in the picturesque Cotswolds, beckons visitors with its timeless charm and idyllic setting. Steeped in history, this quintessential English inn seamlessly blends old-world elegance with modern comforts, creating a haven for those seeking a retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Dating back to the 16th century, The Swan exudes a warm and welcoming ambiance, with its exposed beams, cozy fireplaces, and charming décor. The pub's historic significance is palpable, and it has played host to many tales and gatherings throughout the centuries.
Swinbrook, Burford OX18 4DY
www.theswanswinbrook.co.uk
5/19
The Feathered Nest, Nether Westcote
The Feathered Nest Inn beckons as a haven of tranquility nestled in the picturesque countryside. Surrounded by the scenic beauty of rolling hills and lush greenery, this charming retreat offers a captivating escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Gourmands will find delight in the inn's renowned restaurant, where culinary artistry meets local flavors. Indulge in a gastronomic journey with dishes crafted from fresh, seasonal ingredients, complemented by an extensive wine list. The dining experience is enhanced by the warm and welcoming ambiance, creating moments to savor.
Nether Westcote OX7 6SD
www.thefeatherednestinn.co.uk
6/19
The Bull, Charlbury
The Bull, standing on the corner of Sheep Street since early 1500s, has been the cornerstone of Charlbury for centuries. It has seen many iterations over the years, however, its charm and character have remained.
Primarily a local pub serving good beer, they also have a restaurant centred around open fire cooking. At The Bull they wanted to cut out the middle man. They have daily conversations with their farmers and growers which means the menu is constantly changing.
Sheep St, Charlbury, Chipping Norton OX7 3RR
www.thebullcharlbury.com
7/19
The Kingham Plough, Kingham
A beautifully appointed country pub in the heart of the Cotswolds, The Kingham Plough offers contemporary British dining and pared-back luxurious accommodation.
Nestled in the picturesque village of Kingham, just a stone’s throw from Chipping Norton, Stow-on-the-Wold and Moreton-in-Marsh, the Kingham Plough celebrates local, seasonal ingredients sourced from trusted suppliers. From light bites and small plates to fine classic dishes, our menu is inspired by the best seasonal produce from the British Isles.
The Grn, Kingham, Chipping Norton OX7 6YD
www.thekinghamplough.co.uk
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8/19
The Killingworth, Wooton
Set in the picturesque Oxfordshire village of Wootton, near Woodstock & Blenheim Palace, the historic pub has eight luxury en-suite rooms with 3 AA Rosette food that focuses on seasonal, wild & organic fare from the Cotswolds.
It’s rustic-sleek with exposed-stone arches, wood floors, crackling fires and a long bar that is a very much a haunt of locals. There are panelled bench seats and specially made settles, and with a snug and an additional dining room at the back there’s plenty of space for groups and individuals.
Glympton Rd, Wootton, Woodstock OX20 1EJ
www.thekillingworthcastle.com
9/19
The Wild Rabbit, Kingham
Nestled in the picturesque village of Kingham, The Wild Rabbit offers a charming and idyllic retreat that seamlessly blends rustic charm with modern luxury. This boutique inn is a haven for those seeking a peaceful escape in the heart of the Cotswolds.
Renowned for its commitment to sustainability and locally sourced produce, The Wild Rabbit's restaurant boasts a farm-to-table dining experience. Guests can savor seasonal dishes crafted with fresh ingredients from the surrounding countryside, accompanied by a carefully curated selection of wines and spirits.
Church St, Kingham, Chipping Norton OX7 6YA
www.thewildrabbit.co.uk
10/19
The Falkland Arms, Great Tew
If a picture perfect traditional English pub on the edge of the Cotswolds is what you’re looking for, The Falkland Arms is the perfect place for you. Situated in picturesque Great Tew in Oxfordshire, bring your walking shoes as there are plenty of local walks around the Great Tew estate and they’re in easy reach to explore nearby Chipping Norton, Blenheim Palace and Oxford.
19-21 The Green, Great Tew, Chipping Norton OX7 4DB
www.falklandarms.co.uk
11/19
The Black Horse, Salford
The Black Horse is a tribute to the classic British pub. They value three things – fantastic local food, quality drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere.
They’re at the heart of Salford, the pretty Cotswold village, and as a result, everyone that crosses their threshold is treated like a treasured neighbour, it’s a home away from home…
You’ll find cosy corners and a warm, log fire, as well as a sun-drenched terrace for when the weather is on their side. The stylish Salford Cottage sleeps two and is the perfect spot for those who wish to take in the scenery for a little longer.
Lower End, Salford, Chipping Norton OX7 5YW
www.lionhearth.co.uk/the-black-horse/
12/19
The Bell, Charlbury
The Bell is a 17th Century pub in a picturesque Cotswold market town in the heart of the community. The talented chefs have created a modern British menu serving seasonal dishes that celebrate produce from Daylesford Organic, their sister farm. The bedrooms have been restored with considered attention to detail, drawing on the skills of local artisans and artists. From crackling log fires to a huge orchard garden for families to drink in the sunshine, The Bell provides an escape from the bustle of everyday life.
1 Church St, Charlbury, Chipping Norton OX7 3PP
www.thebellatcharlbury.com
13/19
The Fox, Barrington
The Fox at Barrington is a beautiful Cotswold pub, located right on the banks of the River Windrush in the gorgeous village of Great Barrington, just 2 miles from the town of Burford.
A warm welcome awaits from the King family and their team who took over The Fox in early 2022. You will find a warm welcome, outstanding food, drink and service, as well as a second-to-none location in one of the most stunning areas in the UK. In the winter, enjoy a drink next to the log burner in the cosy bar or dinner in the riverside restaurant, while a sunny day means the chance to dine and drink alfresco in the beautiful garden. Those who want to stay can book in to one of seven tastefully decorated bedrooms, which were all newly refurbished in 2022, along with the bar and restaurant.
Great Barrington, Burford OX18 4TB
www.thefoxatbarrington.com
14/19
The Bell, Langford
A pub near Burford run by Peter Creed and Tom Noest, focussing on good simple pub food with a straightforward wine list, spirits and beer selection. There is a cosy bar area with lots of seating to have a quiet drink, a separate restaurant with open fire and a view of the pizza oven, also a large beer garden overlooking the open countryside.
The Bell Inn, Langford GL7 3LF
www.thebelllangford.com
15/19
The Hare, Milton-under-Wychwood
Located within the Cotswolds triangle of Burford, Chipping Norton and Stow-on-the-Wold, The Hare at Milton-under-Wychwood is the perfect country pub. Behind the Milton stone façade of the ancient pub lies a charming, stylish interior with the warmest of welcomes.
3 High St, Milton-under-Wychwood, Chipping Norton OX7 6LA
www.themiltonhare.co.uk
16/19
The Back Lane Tavern, Woodstock
Offering a selection of small plates created to be shared with friends and family at the dining table - dishes will be served as and when ready to compliment this tapas style of dining we adore.
They also offer an excellently curated wine menu, with hopes to get our clients trying new and wonderful wines from across the globe.
The back bar has been carefully selected and stocked with unique & wonderful spirits that you don't see everywhere! They will be carrying 2 local ales at all times along with a wide selection of draught beer and IPA.
11 Park Ln, Woodstock OX20 1UD
www.backlanetavern.co.uk
17/19
The Chequers, Churchill
The Chequers is a traditional pub in the picturesque village of Churchill is good looking, comfortable and lacking in any pretentions, whatsoever. There’s a welcoming open fire in the bar and elegant outside dining on summer nights.
The Chequers is a grown-up gastropub with flagstone floors, scrubbed wooden beams, candle-lit antique tables and a well-used dartboard.
The pub sits at the heart of a village of beautiful honey-coloured houses, a village green and a historic church. It offers a relaxed atmosphere (dogs are welcome!), great food and drink, and the perfect setting to while away a Cotswolds afternoon or evening.
Church Rd, Churchill, Chipping Norton OX7 6NJ
www.lionhearth.co.uk/the-chequers/
18/19
The Lamb, Shipton-under-Wychwood
A historic Cotswolds pub situated in the beautiful village of Shipton Under Wychwood between Burford & Chipping Norton run by Peter Creed & Tom Noest, focussing on good simple pub food with a straightforward wine list, spirits and beer selection. There is a cosy bar area with lots of seating to have a quiet drink, a separate restaurant, a private dining room & also a large beer garden.
High Street, Shipton-under-Wychwood, Oxfordshire OX7 6DQ
www.thelambshipton.com
19/19
The Royal Oak, Ramsden
The Royal Oak sits proudly at the heart of the small, picturesque village of Ramsden in West Oxfordshire where it has served as a coaching inn and public house for almost 250 years. Since the late 1980s the previous owners were renowned for excellent food, wine and a heart filled welcome.
Now in 2023, the Royal Oak continues to build on its reputation of providing travellers and locals with a warm welcome, great food and a wonderful pint or fine wine.
Sympathetic to its history and to its story, the Grade II listed building was been restored and refreshed throughout in 2020. Retaining the essence of a traditional, local village pub, the addition of their bright, spacious dining area, snugs for more intimate gatherings, extensive outside space and five boutique bedrooms, there really is a spot for everyone.
High St, Chipping Norton OX7 3AU
www.royaloakramsden.com